The sun rises in the east: Hoi An

Arrived in Hoi An Tuesday at lunchtime after a 4hr drive from Hue-raining most of the way. The cities in central Vietnam seem a little more relaxed in terms of traffic-one thing that helps is that its 4lanes within the cities and on the initial outskirts so some of the foot traffic and bicycles doesn't get in the way as much. Four hours goes a lot quicker when you have a completely new panorama to keep you occupied. Climbed through a scenic mountain range along the coastline- reminded me of the California cost north of Santa Barbara. Finally reached Danang (remember that name anyone over 50)- was in the news regularly during the Vietnam war -site of the initial US Marine landing as well as home to a US air force base. Passed by China Beach . Danang today is an industrial city (4th largest in Vietnam) but also is the site of multiple beach resorts and several golf courses. We saw many golf bags in our hotel lobby in Hue-probably headed there.
Stopped in Danang to see the Cham museum (we will be going to My son on wednesday-site of Cham ruins).

So the Cham were (still existbut represent a small minority) an Indic people who were Hindus and inhabited and controlled south Vietnam from ~400-1200. They were a matriarchal society and believed in Siva, Vishnu and ?Rama. Most of the sculptures depicts these gods as well as linga (male) and yonni (female) much the same as yin and yang in buddhism. The Cham were frequently in conflict with the Viets from the north but controlled this area and south for ~ 800 years. My son is the site of their religious statues these were really towers which were discovered early in the 20th century by french archeologist who were wandering in the jungle. Most of the ruins were damaged during the "American war".

Orange trees for sale for New Years

China Beach

Farmer in the rice paddies

Continued driving and reached Hoi An around lunchtime. Charming little village -most westernized so far. Known for making clothing while you wait, a lot of shops selling pashminas, shoes, clothing.

Cargo restaurant

Stopped at Cargo restaurant, located on the waterfront you just saw. Ate here for lunch next two days. A westernized Vietnamese restaurant serving Vietnamese style dishes as well as burgers and sandwiches.

Stuffed squid

Vegetable curry

Japenese bridge

The Japanese bridge is synonomous with the Old part of Hoi An-built by the Japanese to bridge their neighborhood with the Chinese (now all have left).

Inside the Japanese bridge-no vehicular traffic allowed

A community center for Chinese still supported by the Chinese although few live here.

Long burning incense

Frangipani

Hoi An market

Rose Apple

Passion fruit

Bitter melon

Oodles of noodles

Checked into our hotel-Victoria Beach Resort-beautiful on the ocean

So I read up on the local restaurants (apologies to Laurent) and this one was the best so far-Mango Rooms-upscale(?) Viet fusion (unclear with what). Met the chef who spent time in US (Texas) cooking. We loved it definitely a must for foodies